But in this era of emerging sexual liberation, normal must also include consideration of conscious sexual codes and practices such as consent, negotiation, safe words, education, after-care, and more that can allow our edgiest desires to be reasonably expressed with an eager partner seeking a similar edge.

How can you tell if your partner's sexual desire is normal?

It sounds simple enough, but here’s the problem: We are in an era of expanding sexual expression unprecedented in the history of civilization. The vast range of human sexual potential has barely been explored up to this era.

Human’s sexual maturity lags way behind the level of integrity required for this advanced form of sexual liberation. This emerging explosion of sexual expression is still in a very adolescent stage.

Hordes of eager explorers are rushing into this new sexual frontier seeking the intense sexual experiences and compelling ecstasy that can be found there. Too often, they are operating at a maturity level not much above a 13-year-old's.

This leads to adolescent behaviors and transactions that can be reckless, irresponsible, deceptive and, at times, unfortunately, outright violations of consent...or worse.

The rampant immaturity we find common in this wild sexual frontier is understandable since sex has been forced to be the bastard of human personality for several millennia.

Many of the issues created by our lack of sexual experience, honesty, and knowledge could more readily be resolved going forward if we had a rigorous ongoing comprehensive sex education program starting in middle school.

Your sexuality is your birthright. If you need support untangling embedded shame, fear, confusion, internalized moral judgments, or sexual trauma, seek out a sex-positive therapist who will help you embrace your authentic sexuality.

(An abridged version of this article originally appeared in an interview with sex therapist Dr. Michael Aaron in Psychology Today.)

Galen Fous MTP is a Sex and Kink-positive therapist in Portland, Oregon. He works with clients striving for shame-free sexual authenticity and honest sexual expression with partners, via Skype, phone and in person. To arrange an initial appointment, go to his website. For deeper insight into all the nuances of Fantasy, Sex and Relationships, check out his highly acclaimed book, Decoding Your Kink - Guide to Explore, Share & Enjoy Your Wildest Sexual Desires.